Following is a message of support and solidarity from Ms. Radka Maxova, Vice-Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Women’s Rights and Gender Equality, to a conference on November 22, 2023, at the European Parliament that invited the leader of the Iranian Opposition, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, to address the MEPs.
Dear Mrs. Rajavi, dear colleagues.
I am sorry I was not able to join the meeting last Wednesday due to a exceptional agenda and vote that was added to the agenda.
However, I wanted to take the opportunity to address the current situation in Iran especially as we are celebrating 16 days of activism on the occasion of the International Day to Eliminate Violence against Women.
We must speak about the brave women of Iran and support them once again.
The high number of executions in Iran, particularly of women is indeed alarming.
Last year, we followed the developments in Iran very closely. Thousands were arrested, and suffered terrible conditions. The regime’s repressive forces tragically claimed the lives of 750 individuals, a significant portion of whom were young women and girls. At least 70 children lost their lives due to the brutal crackdown by the regime but they people of Iran have not given up and we support them. We strongly support and stand in solidarity with the people of Iran until Iran is free.
I concur with my colleagues, that it is imperative for us to stand in solidarity with the Iranian people and resolutely reject the Iranian regime. This approach charts the most promising path ahead, recognizing that the destiny of Iran lies in the hands of its people.
I commend the NCRI and Madam Rajavi for being strong voice of the movement for free Iran and for democratic alternative.
It is incumbent upon our leaders and representatives in the European Parliament, as well as in other European parliaments, to see and understand this reality and stand in solidarity with you while firmly rejecting the tyranny in Tehran.
Thank you.
